This Auto-Pausing Netflix Extension Is A Must-Have For Chrome Users

One of my favourite Netflix tricks is a simple one. When you’re watching your favourite TV show on the streaming service within your web browser, not a standalone Netflix app, odds are good you’ll encounter opening credits and have to drag your mouse over and click the handy “skip intro” button to get going. I think that’s too much work, since you can also just tap “s” on your keyboard to activate the button instead. Seconds saved.

You won’t find this little hotkey on Netflix’s published list, but the fun doesn’t have to stop there. Install the Netflix Extended extension for Chrome, and you’ll get a few more to play with—and one feature I absolutely love for those who just can’t seem to focus on a show for any length of time.

Netflix Extended unlocks four new keyboard commands in addition to the Netflix regulars—like “up” or “down” to increase or decrease volume, “m” to mute, and “space” to pause. The extension adds:

“N”—for jumping to the next episode of whatever it is you’re watching

“B”—for jumping to the previous episode

“Esc”—returns you to the primary Netflix screen (with your current show or movie selected)

“R”—plays a random show or movie

Within Netflix Extended’s options, you can change any of these four new hotkeys to a completely different key, if you want. More importantly, you can also activate a special feature—off by default—that automatically pauses your Netflix content when the browser tab isn’t in focus. It’s great if you need to jump away for a moment to check your email or favourite social network, as your show or movie will automatically resume playing when you return to the Netflix tab.

By default, Netflix Extended also skips all show intros and recaps. You can turn this setting off, if you’d rather do it manually—with the “s” key, of course.

In the wake of community and political pressure following the livestreaming of the horrific terrorist attacks at Christchurch on Friday, Australian ISPs have started blocking some sites used to rehost footage of the livestream, including the infamous 8chan image board.